Alexander Kurlyandskiy Soviet writer, screenwriter, popular children's writer, satirist, playwright Date of Birth: 01.07.1938 Country: Russia

1. Childhood and Youth
2. Engineering Education and Early Writing
3. Collaboration and Literary Breakthrough
4. "Nu, Pogodi!" and Other Noted Works
5. Personal Life and Legacy

Childhood and Youth

Alexander Yefimovich Kurlyandsky, the acclaimed Soviet writer, screenwriter, and children's author, was born in Moscow on July 1, 1938. As a child, he displayed an energetic and mischievous personality, frequently skipping school and indulging in playful pranks. Despite his unruly behavior, Kurlyandsky possessed a keen interest in literature and spent countless hours reading science fiction.

Engineering Education and Early Writing

After graduating from secondary school, Kurlyandsky initially pursued a technical education at the Moscow Civil Engineering Institute. During his university years, he excelled in mathematical subjects and applied his engineering skills in designing a makeshift rocket with his friends. Despite his aptitude for engineering, Kurlyandsky's love for writing persisted, and he penned humorous sketches for campus events.

Collaboration and Literary Breakthrough

A pivotal moment in Kurlyandsky's career came when he teamed up with theater director Mark Rozovsky and playwright Arkady Hait to write sketches for the popular television program "Vesely Sputnik." Their witty scenes earned them considerable recognition and marked the beginning of Kurlyandsky's professional writing journey. He went on to contribute to children's programs, write satirical pieces, and publish humorous stories in magazines and newspapers.

"Nu, Pogodi!" and Other Noted Works

Kurlyandsky's most iconic creation was the beloved animated series "Nu, Pogodi!" (Well, Just You Wait!). Collaborating with Hait and animator Felix Kamov, they developed the slapstick comedy between the wolf and the hare, which became a household favorite across the Soviet Union. The series remains popular to this day and has inspired numerous spin-offs and adaptations.

Another notable work by Kurlyandsky was the children's book "My Grandmother is a Witch." Published in 1989, this fantasy-adventure novel gained significant popularity and is considered a literary predecessor to the Harry Potter series.

Personal Life and Legacy

Kurlyandsky married Inessa Denisovna Chukovsky after his military service. While they had been acquainted since their university days, they only met in person after his discharge. Despite having no children of their own, the couple shared a close bond and a mutual love for their pet cat, Suzik.

Alexander Yefimovich Kurlyandsky passed away on December 21, 2020, at the age of 82. His contributions to Soviet and Russian children's literature and entertainment will continue to bring joy and laughter to generations to come.